The Most Powerful Love Letters Ever Written

The Most Powerful Love Letters Ever Written

What's hiding in your mail pile? Imagine if, among the gas bills, catalogs, and takeout menus, there were a letter from a lover, telling you in beautiful English that you’re the best thing ever. The internet is an unbelievably great form of communication, but a touching text on iMessage or WhatsApp tends to fall between all your other chat threads, open apps, and tabs. It might make you smile for a moment — but a letter makes you stop.

These letters made hearts stop. From some of history’s greatest literary heroes and most-adored artists and actors, here are nine of the most powerful sentiments ever written. They describe love that's turbulent, stolen, unrequited, certain, and pure. Read on; then, find the nearest pen and get writing.